Minneapolis gives away free radon test kits

Testing is the only way to know if your home contains dangerous levels of cancer-causing gas

Jan. 14, 2013 (MINNEAPOLIS) The City of Minneapolis is giving away 250 radon test kits to increase awareness of the cancer risks of radon and encourage people to test their homes for it. Radon is an odorless, colorless, tasteless gas that occurs naturally in Minnesota soils and can enter homes primarily through cracks and openings in basement or foundation floors and walls.

Media note: This giveaway is open to media who may want photos or video, or to learn more about the dangers of radon and how to prevent radon exposure. Staff will be available for media interviews at 10 a.m.

Radon is the second leading cause of lung cancer in the U.S. and the first cause among nonsmokers. More than 21,000 deaths are attributed to radon each year in the U.S. The Minnesota Department of Health estimates that one in three existing Minnesota homes has radon levels that pose a large health risk over many years of exposure. Radon exposure, however, is preventable, and radon problems in homes can be fixed. The first step is to test for radon at home, and the Minnesota Department of Health recommends that all homes in Minnesota be tested for radon. The test kits are easy to use, and postage and testing instructions are included in the kit. The giveaway test kits are donated by the Minnesota Department of Health.

Radon reduction system grants available for qualifying homes

For homes that are found to have a certain level radon, there may be assistance available to reduce the gas within the home. Income qualified home owners of properties in Minneapolis with a reading of 4 picocuries per liter, or pCi/L, or higher might qualify for grant services to assist with the installation of a radon reduction system.For more information on high levels of radon and radon grant services, please contact:

After the one-day giveaway, kits will be available for $9 at the City of Minneapolis Development Review, 250 S. Fourth St., Room 300. Minneapolis Development Review’s hours of operation are: Mondays, Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Fridays from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. and Thursdays from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.